This is the 60th anniversary of the Disney film, Mary Poppins — and the 60th anniversary of the opening of Conant High School — so naturally the students are celebrating the two milestones by bringing Mary Poppins to life. They are especially excited because this is the first time they are bringing the magic of flying to Conant’s stage. Performances are at 7 p.m. Oct. 24th-26th, with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on the 26th.
Mary Poppins company performing Jolly Holiday photo credit: Carrie Hamm
“We’ve been working with representatives from Vertigo, a fantastic flying company, who came to our space, installed equipment, and trained the students,” says Director Katherine Apperson-Skobel. “Through various fundraising efforts and the support of our school and district administration, we were able to bring this unique opportunity to our students.”
The milestone anniversary drew Apperson-Skobel to select the musical this year. While she performed in it herself in community theater, and also worked in developing costumes for another production, she is finding the timeless messages highlighted in the show, continue to resonate.
“For me, the story has been a tether to childhood. I have so many positive memories of watching the movie with my family and it has become a comfort for me,” Apperson-Skobel says. “It represents the sense that learning can happen anywhere and life is what you make of it.
Dylan Carlyon as Bert photo credit: Brian Schroeck
“There is also something for people of any age,” she add. “Children find a sense of wonder with the magic of Mary Poppins and her adventures; adults may relate to the struggles of work-life balance seen in the Banks’ home; and others may connect with the endearing music and timeless lessons provided throughout the movie.”
A pair of seniors, Maya Cronfel and Dylan Carlyon, play the lead roles of Mary Poppins and Bert. They have been dedicated members of Conant Theatre throughout their high school careers and are also members of the top choir ensembles. Next month, they will represent Conant in the Illinois Music Educators Association District Choir ensemble.
The pit orchestra includes 15 students playing everything from brass and percussion, to stringed instruments and woodwinds. Students also worked behind the scenes in the tech crew, creating the sets, costumes, lighting, sound and marketing.
Bailey Rhyse Walters as Jane, Dan Gorr as Mr. Banks, Nina Rosiles as Mrs. Banks, and Liam Hamm as Michael photo credit: Brian Schroeck
Ultimately, there’s a reason Mary Poppins has stood the test of time, Apperson-Skobel says.
“There’s a timelessness about the story in that there will always be families who struggle to connect; there will always be a world grappling with social expectations;” she says, “and there will always be gifts from the universe to guide our way should we choose to notice them.”
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